Forum: Register wishes on advance care plan to ensure peace of mind

Euthanasia is illegal in Singapore. The question then is, what should be done for patients who have been certified to be beyond all medical help.

While it is a doctor’s responsibility to keep a patient alive for as long as possible, the pressing question is whether doctors should resuscitate a patient who is not only terminally ill, but also suffering great pain. This puts medical professionals in a difficult position.

Some family members may insist that the doctor continue all life-sustaining measures, even if doing so may not be in the best interest of the patient. Others may prefer that the doctor do nothing, which may conflict with the doctor’s professional ethics and duty of care.

I am glad there is a service in place allowing individuals, while they are still well and lucid, to register their wishes on how they would like doctors to act should they become terminally ill. This serves as an important guide for doctors to honour the patient’s choices if necessary.

I was heartened when Mr Benjamin Yeo from Lions Befrienders Service Association’s psychosocial and community care department came to my home recently to discuss advance care planning with my wife and me.

He was sensitive and professional, explaining carefully why each question was being asked, and why it was important for us to respond honestly. He went through the form thoroughly to ensure that we understood everything before we signed the document, which will be kept in a register accessible to medical professionals.

I believe this is a thoughtful and compassionate service.

I want to encourage people to register their wishes while still in good health and sound mind. Doing so will ensure peace of mind and a smoother journey when one’s time eventually comes.

Ong Soon Leong